Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the creamy, dreamy Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo. Perfectly cooked fettuccine pasta enveloped in a rich sauce, complemented by succulent shrimp, makes this dish a household favorite. Whether you’re impressing guests at a dinner party or simply indulging in a cozy night in, this Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo is sure to delight. With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, you’ll find yourself returning to this recipe time and again.
Why This Recipe is a Keeper
This Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. It strikes the perfect balance between creamy and savory, with the garlic and parmesan cheese elevating the dish to new heights. The shrimp add a delightful sweetness and texture that pairs beautifully with the rich sauce. Additionally, this recipe can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions alike.
Your Shopping Guide
To whip up this delightful dish, here’s what you’ll need to add to your shopping list:
- Fettuccine: 1 lb, fresh or dried
- Unsalted Butter: 3 tablespoons for sautéing and flavor
- Shrimp: 1 lb, peeled and deveined for the star of the show
- Salt: to taste, enhances all the flavors
- Ground Black Pepper: to taste, for a little kick
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced, for that aromatic touch
- All-Purpose Flour: 2 tablespoons, for thickening the sauce
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup, for a rich and creamy base
- Whole Milk: 1/2 cup, to balance the creaminess
- Egg Yolk: 1, to enhance richness
- Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup, grated, for that classic flavor
- Fresh Parsley: 1 tablespoon, chopped, for garnish
Appliances & Accessories
Before diving into the kitchen, make sure you have the following tools on hand:
- Large Pot: for boiling the pasta
- Skillet: for cooking the shrimp and making the sauce
- Whisk: for mixing the sauce smoothly
- Colander: for draining the pasta
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: for precision in your ingredients
- Cooking Spoon: for stirring
Step-by-Step: Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo
Step 1: Cook the Fettuccine
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Sprinkle the flour into the skillet, stirring to combine. Gradually pour in the heavy cream and whole milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.
Step 4: Add the Egg Yolk and Cheese
Remove the skillet from the heat. In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolk. Slowly add a few tablespoons of the hot cream mixture to the yolk to temper it, then whisk it back into the skillet. Stir in the grated parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet, tossing it in the sauce until well-coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Gently fold in the sautéed shrimp.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Serve your Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Holiday-Friendly Variations
This Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo can easily be adapted for special occasions or festive gatherings. Consider these variations:
- Lemon Zest: Add freshly grated lemon zest for a bright, zesty flavor.
- Spinach: Stir in fresh spinach just before serving for a nutritious boost.
- Crab Meat: Substitute shrimp with lump crab meat for an elegant twist.
- Mushrooms: Sauté some mushrooms along with the shrimp for added earthiness.
Method to the Madness
To make your Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo truly unforgettable, follow these tips:
- Use fresh ingredients whenever possible for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp; they should be tender and juicy.
- For a deeper flavor, use freshly grated parmesan cheese.
- Feel free to experiment with herbs like thyme or basil for added freshness.
Storage Pro Tips
If you have leftovers or want to prep ahead, here are some storage tips:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess.
- Do not freeze the dish, as the cream sauce may separate upon thawing.
Quick Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking for the best results.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use a combination of half-and-half and whole milk for a lighter version, but the sauce may not be as rich.
Can I add vegetables to the dish?
Yes, vegetables like broccoli, peas, or bell peppers can be added for extra nutrition and color. Just sauté them with the shrimp.
What sides pair well with Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo?
A fresh garden salad or garlic bread complements this dish beautifully, adding a refreshing or crispy element to your meal.
One Pan, More Ideas
Looking for more delicious pasta dishes? Check out these options:
- Creamy Garlic Lemon Scallop Linguine for a seafood twist.
- Garlic Butter Scallop Fettuccine for another creamy delight.
Bring It to the Table
Serving Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo is a celebration in itself. As you dish it out, watch your loved ones’ faces light up with joy at the sight of this creamy, decadent pasta. The aroma of garlic and parmesan fills the air, making it clear that something special is being served. Don’t forget to have some extra parmesan on the table for those who want to sprinkle a little more on top.
Once you’ve plated this Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo, grab a fork and dig in! You’ll find that every bite is a heavenly combination of flavors, textures, and warmth. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a special occasion, this dish is bound to be a hit, leaving everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy your cooking adventure, and savor the moments spent with family and friends around the table.
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Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Sprinkle the flour into the skillet, stirring to combine. Gradually pour in the heavy cream and whole milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Remove the skillet from the heat. In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolk. Slowly add a few tablespoons of the hot cream mixture to the yolk to temper it, then whisk it back into the skillet. Stir in the grated parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet, tossing it in the sauce until well-coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Gently fold in the sautéed shrimp.
- Serve your Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Notes
- Use fresh ingredients whenever possible for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp; they should be tender and juicy.
- For a deeper flavor, use freshly grated parmesan cheese.
- Feel free to experiment with herbs like thyme or basil for added freshness.
